Introducing the international debut Deutsche Grammophon orchestral album from leading French-Canadian conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin and the distinguished Philadelphia Orchestra. A powerful musical tribute to the mighty Leopold Stokowski (1882 - 1977), 35 years after his death, from the young conductor who now continues his legacy. Stokowski spent some of his most important and fruitful years in charge of the orchestra in Philadelphia, in a position that brought him some of his greatest accomplishments. Musical showmanship, free-thinking and a populist approach to contemporary music are characteristics of Stokowski's distinguished conducting and recording career.

This new album focuses on Stravinsky's daring, revolutionary and game-changing ballet score, The Rite of Spring - given its American premiere performance by Stokowski and his Philadelphia Orchestra, and a work that reaches its centenary milestone in 2013. Plus a selection of popular Stokowski transcriptions, including the famous Toccata and Fugue in D minor (J. S. Bach), as heard in its Stokowski version in Disney's classic Mickey Mouse movie, Fantasia. Beginning an important musical partnership for Deutsche Grammophon, expect the unexpected from one of the most exciting, energetic and insightful young maestros of our age.

Gramophone Magazine, January 2014The opening [of Rite] is especially memorable with a darkly wailing, characterfully intoned bassoon...Thereafter the performance rides a course somewhere between guarded brilliance and elevated routine until we reach the closing 'Sacrificial Dance' which...is granted one of the most balletic performances I've ever heard, edgy, buoyant and viscerally exciting.

The Observer, 29th September 2013Any newcomer needs a strong character and a good context - this has both. Yannick NTzet-STguin treads well that line in Stravinsky between luscious depth and power and biting clarity and impact...A cunningly constructed, beautifully played programme.

The Times, 2nd November 2013NTzet-STguin's army of admirers will love the young Canadian conductor's affectionate homage to Leopold Stokowski, his greatest predecessor as maestro of the Philadelphia Orchestra...The playing is crystal clear in a dry acoustic, though stolid at times.

American Record Guide, January/February 2014This Rite is slightly classical in approach. Everything is cleanly and clearly drawn, well articulated, taut, and detailed. This is a performance worth getting if the rest of the program appeals to you.